How to connect a VCR to a smart TV
Most VCRs work with modern TVs, even ones that seem to have only HDMI. First check the TV for a small AV input. If it has one, a plain yellow/white/red cable does the job. If not, you need a powered AV-to-HDMI converter, and it must convert in that direction.
Yes. You need a converter.
What you need
- Composite AV cable (yellow/white/red) Look for: 3 RCA male to 3 RCA male
- AV to HDMI converter Look for: AV to HDMI / RCA to HDMI / AV2HDMI
- HDMI cable Look for: High Speed HDMI (Ultra High Speed for 4K 120Hz)
Connect it like this
- VCRComposite AV (RCA) out
- Composite AV cable (yellow/white/red)
- AV to HDMI converterComposite AV (RCA) in, HDMI out. Needs power.
- HDMI cable
- Smart TVHDMI in
What to know
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Cost
- About $28–$55 if you buy everything new
- Picture
- Standard definition
- Lag
- Minimal
- Extra power
- Yes, the converter needs USB or wall power
Why this works
Composite AV (RCA) is analog and HDMI is digital. A plain cable can’t bridge that. A powered AV to HDMI converter translates the signal.
Before you buy
- Direction matters. You need Composite AV (RCA) in and HDMI out. The HDMI to AV converter looks almost identical but works the other way. Check that the box says “AV to HDMI”.
- It makes the connection work. It does not make old video HD.
Good to know
- Use the jacks labeled OUT on the VCR, not IN.
- Many "HDMI only" TVs still have a small AV input hidden on the side. Press Input/Source on the remote and look for AV or Composite.
Your gear a little different? Answer a couple of questions about your own ports.
Check my exact setup